My family and I are headed out on our first cruise, the Costa Victoria (which stops in Bari, Olympis, Rhodes, Santorini, Mykinos and Dubrovnic).

I've been trying to find out the 'dress code'. I'm pretty certain that during the day it's pretty causal. However, I read somewhere that dinners are 'no jeans'. I know that there are 2 formals during the cruise. Could someone please clarify.

Has anyone done this cruise that would be willing to share their experience?

What excursions did you do if any and what did you think of them?

Did you utilize the children's club and how was that? We will be traveling with kids ages 5 and 6 years. Did they offer child care during the 2 formal nights? If no, then how dressed up do the kids need to be (my son hates the whole suite and tie thing).

Our tickets said that boarding begins as early as 2pm (departs at 6pm). How early can we drop off our luggage - we were hoping to get lunch in Venice.

We are driving from Germany, has anyone had any experience with the paid, secure parking? I was told there are 2 lots, one near the ship and one in Mestre that has a shuttle.

there are probably 2 formal nights indeed. But I doubt that the "no jeans" policy is that strict, as far as the jeans are nice ones and you combine them with a nice shirt. There might also be a semi- formal night, you should be fine there with a business suit.

For Dubrovnik, i'd suggest a tour of the old town on your own. There are probably free town maps available on board.

At Katakolon, i'd strongly suggest an excursion to old Olympia. The drive isn't that long, and walking along the ruins beneath the beautiful old olive trees is a memorable experience. Alternative: If the kids want to go to the beach, there are lovely ones a short taxi ride away.

Parking: I recommend the parking in Venice, which is specifically cruise passengers only, directly next to the terminal. It is enclosed by a high fence, and has a guarded entrance. The cost is 60,- Euros per week. But you definitely need a reservation in advance, which you get from Costa Crociere, otherwise the parking might be full (although it is a big space). I have never heard of a cruise passenger parking in Mestre. Knowing the town of Mestre a little, this sounds not very good to me.

I think you can drop off your luggage at any time you arrive. In our case, we arrived once at 10 AM and this year at 10.30 AM. The porters were already very busy at that time. That will leave you plenty of time to go downtown. But remember when exploring old Venice by foot, the city is far bigger than it appears to be. When having lunch, avoid the crowded area around St. Marcus square.

Check out the german board for more information. A lot of members have been on the Costa Victoria recently.

Costa is offering that itinerary on the "Costa Victoria" in April, 2006. There will be four Monday departures: April 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th, 2006.

By the way, may I ask to please not use ALL CAPS in your posts, as that is considered shouting on the internet. It also makes your posts more difficult to read. Thank you very much for your kind understanding.

I don't have a link right now, and it is possible that these itineraries have not been opened for sale, yet. However, I do have a detailed preview list of the 2006 itineraries for all Costa ships with the exception of "Costa Allegra's" far-east itineraries.